documentary citation chicago style

Table of Contents

  • Preparing…
Documentary citation Chicago style is a crucial skill for anyone engaging with academic research, film studies, or historical analysis. Properly citing documentaries ensures academic integrity, allows readers to locate and verify the sources you’ve consulted, and acknowledges the creators' work. This comprehensive guide will demystify the process of citing documentaries in Chicago style, covering both notes-bibliography and author-date systems. We will explore the essential components of a documentary citation, common variations, and best practices to ensure your citations are accurate and compliant. Whether you're a student, researcher, or avid film viewer, mastering documentary citation in Chicago style will enhance the credibility of your work.

Table of Contents

  • Understanding the Basics of Chicago Style for Documentaries
  • Essential Elements of a Chicago Style Documentary Citation
  • Citing Documentaries in the Notes-Bibliography System
  • Citing Documentaries in the Author-Date System
  • Common Challenges and Solutions in Documentary Citation
  • Examples of Documentary Citations in Chicago Style
  • Why Accurate Documentary Citation Matters

Understanding the Basics of Chicago Style for Documentaries

Chicago style, also known as the Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS), is a widely used citation system, particularly in history and the arts. It offers two primary methods for citing sources: the notes-bibliography system and the author-date system. Both systems require you to provide sufficient information for your reader to identify and locate the documentary you referenced. The core principle behind any citation is to give credit where credit is due and to allow for the verification of information. When dealing with documentaries, which are often collaborative and can be accessed through various platforms, adherence to the specific requirements of Chicago style is paramount.

The choice between the notes-bibliography and author-date systems often depends on the specific requirements of your institution or publication. The notes-bibliography system uses footnotes or endnotes to cite sources, with a corresponding bibliography at the end of the work. The author-date system, more common in the sciences and social sciences, uses in-text citations consisting of the author’s last name and the year of publication, followed by a reference list. Regardless of the chosen system, the goal is consistency and clarity in how you attribute your sources, including the unique challenges presented by visual media like documentaries.

Essential Elements of a Chicago Style Documentary Citation

To accurately cite a documentary in Chicago style, several key pieces of information are generally required. These elements help readers identify the specific film and its creators. The precise format may vary slightly between the notes-bibliography and author-date systems, but the core data remains consistent. Understanding these components is the first step toward creating correct citations.

Key Information for Documentary Citations

  • Title of the Documentary: This should be the full, official title, italicized.
  • Director(s): The name(s) of the primary director(s) or producer(s), depending on the system and emphasis.
  • Producer(s) (if applicable and distinct): Sometimes listed separately from the director, especially if they played a significant role.
  • Production Company: The company or companies responsible for producing the documentary.
  • Year of Release: The year the documentary was first released.
  • Distributor (if applicable): The company that distributed the film.
  • Format or Medium: This indicates how you accessed the documentary (e.g., DVD, Blu-ray, streaming service, broadcast).
  • Date of Access (for online sources): Crucial for online materials that may change or be removed.
  • URL or specific access information: For online documentaries, the web address is necessary.

Gathering all this information beforehand will streamline the citation process. It’s important to note that the emphasis might shift slightly depending on whether you are creating a bibliography entry or a note. For instance, a note might focus on the director and title, while a bibliography entry will often include a more comprehensive set of details.

Citing Documentaries in the Notes-Bibliography System

The notes-bibliography system in Chicago style is characterized by its use of footnotes or endnotes for in-text citations, complemented by a comprehensive bibliography at the end of the paper. This system is favored in many humanities disciplines, including history and film studies, where detailed source attribution is essential.

Creating Notes for Documentaries

When citing a documentary in a footnote or endnote, you typically provide a condensed version of the bibliographic information. The first time you cite a particular documentary, the note should be more detailed. Subsequent citations can be shortened.

First Note Citation

The structure for the first note often includes the director's name, the italicized title, production company, year of release, and specific access details.

Example:

1. Directed by Errol Morris, The Thin Blue Line (1988; USA: Lightbox Productions, 2007), DVD. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.example-streaming-service.com/thinblueline.

Subsequent Note Citation

For subsequent references to the same documentary, you can use a shortened form, typically the director’s last name and the title, followed by the note number or page number if referencing a specific segment.

Example:

2. Morris, The Thin Blue Line.

Creating Bibliography Entries for Documentaries

The bibliography is an alphabetical list of all sources cited in the work. For documentaries, the bibliography entry is typically more comprehensive than the initial note.

Bibliography Format

The standard format for a documentary in the bibliography under the notes-bibliography system generally follows this pattern:

  • Director’s Last Name, First Name, director. Title of Documentary. Producer(s) (if distinct). Production Company, Year of Release. Format (e.g., DVD, Blu-ray, streaming). Distributor (if applicable).

Example:

Morris, Errol, director. The Thin Blue Line. USA: Lightbox Productions, 2007. DVD. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.example-streaming-service.com/thinblueline.

It is crucial to be consistent with the information provided. If the documentary was accessed via streaming, ensure the URL and access date are included. If it was a physical media like a DVD, note that format. The inclusion of distributor information can also be important, especially for academic research.

Citing Documentaries in the Author-Date System

The author-date system, as used in Chicago style, provides an alternative method for citing sources, emphasizing the author and publication year within the text. This is generally paired with a reference list rather than a bibliography.

In-Text Citations for Documentaries

In the author-date system, in-text citations typically include the director’s last name and the year of release. If the director is not the primary credited individual, you might use the title or producer as the primary authorial element, depending on the specific context and availability of information.

Example:

(Morris 1988)

Or, if directly referencing a segment or specific point:

(Morris 1988, scene 3)

Creating Reference List Entries for Documentaries

The reference list contains all sources cited in the text, alphabetized by the author’s last name. The format for documentaries in the reference list is similar to the bibliography in the notes-bibliography system, but with some structural adjustments, particularly in the placement of the year.

Reference List Format

The general format for a documentary in the reference list is:

  • Director’s Last Name, First Name, director. Year of Release. Title of Documentary. Producer(s) (if distinct). Production Company. Format (e.g., DVD, Blu-ray, streaming). Distributor (if applicable). URL (for online sources).

Example:

Morris, Errol, director. 1988. The Thin Blue Line. USA: Lightbox Productions. DVD. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.example-streaming-service.com/thinblueline.

The key difference here is the placement of the year of release immediately after the director's name. Consistency in listing the producer, production company, and access details is vital for the reader’s ability to locate the source.

Common Challenges and Solutions in Documentary Citation

Citing documentaries can sometimes present unique challenges not always encountered with traditional print sources. These often arise from the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the diverse ways documentaries are produced and distributed.

Variations in Credits and Authorship

Documentaries may have multiple directors, producers, cinematographers, and researchers. Deciding who to credit as the primary author can be complex. Chicago style generally prioritizes the director as the primary author. However, if a producer is more prominently featured or if the documentary is presented as a directorial vision without a single director, you might adjust accordingly. Always prioritize the credited individual who had the most creative control or whose name is most prominently associated with the film's creation.

Accessing and Citing Online Documentaries

Many documentaries are now accessed through streaming services or online platforms. Citing these requires attention to the URL and the date of access, as online content can be updated or removed. For streaming services, it’s best to provide the most direct URL available. If the documentary is part of a larger collection on a streaming platform, you might include the name of the platform and the specific title within that collection.

Documentaries without a Clear Director or Release Year

In rare cases, a documentary might not have a clearly credited director or a precise release year. In such instances, Chicago style suggests using the most prominent available information. If no director is listed, you might use the production company or the title as the primary entry point. If a release year is unavailable, use “n.d.” (no date) in place of the year.

Referencing Specific Segments or Interviews

If you are citing a specific segment, interview, or scene within a documentary, your citation should be as specific as possible. This might involve noting the timestamp, scene number, or the name of the individual being interviewed within the note or in-text citation.

Example in a note:

3. Morris, The Thin Blue Line, “Interview with Randall Adams,” 0:45:10.

Examples of Documentary Citations in Chicago Style

To solidify your understanding, here are a few more examples of documentary citations in Chicago style, demonstrating common scenarios.

Example 1: Documentary on DVD

Notes-Bibliography System:

Note:

4. Directed by Alex Gibney, Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005; USA: Jigsaw Productions, 2005), DVD.

Bibliography:

Gibney, Alex, director. Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room. USA: Jigsaw Productions, 2005. DVD.

Example 2: Documentary Accessed via Streaming Service

Author-Date System:

In-Text Citation:

(Attenborough 2019)

Reference List Entry:

Attenborough, David, narrator. 2019. Our Planet. Silverback Films for Netflix. Streaming. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.netflix.com/ourplanet.

Example 3: Documentary from a Television Broadcast

Notes-Bibliography System:

Note:

5. Frontline, “The Persuaders,” directed by Hedrick Smith, PBS, October 19, 1974. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/persuaders.

Bibliography:

Frontline. “The Persuaders.” Directed by Hedrick Smith. PBS, October 19, 1974. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/persuaders.

Note: For broadcast documentaries like those from PBS's Frontline, the series title often precedes the specific episode title, and the network and original broadcast date are crucial details.

Example 4: Documentary with a Narrator but no prominent Director

Author-Date System:

In-Text Citation:

(Kushner 2012)

Reference List Entry:

Kushner, Tony, narrator. 2012. Complicit: The Unseen War in Pakistan. HBO Documentary Films. Streaming. Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.hbo.com/documentaries/complicit.

Note: When a narrator is the primary credited figure, or if the director is less emphasized, the narrator's name can serve as the authorial element in the citation.

Why Accurate Documentary Citation Matters

Accurate citation of documentaries, like all sources, is fundamental to academic and research integrity. It’s not merely a stylistic exercise but a critical component of responsible scholarship.

Crediting Creators and Ensuring Academic Integrity

By properly citing a documentary, you acknowledge the creative and intellectual labor of the filmmakers, producers, interviewees, and all those involved in its production. This attribution respects intellectual property and upholds the principles of academic honesty, preventing plagiarism and ensuring that credit is given where it is due. It’s a direct demonstration that you have engaged with and built upon the work of others.

Allowing Readers to Verify Information

A well-constructed citation acts as a roadmap for your readers. It enables them to locate the documentary you referenced, allowing them to view it themselves, verify the information you’ve presented, and explore the topic further. This transparency is essential for building trust and credibility in your research or writing.

Demonstrating Thorough Research

The inclusion of carefully cited documentaries signals that you have conducted thorough and diverse research. It shows an understanding that knowledge is built through engagement with various media and that visual and auditory sources are as valid and important as written ones. This can strengthen the overall impact and persuasiveness of your work.

Conclusion

Mastering documentary citation Chicago style is an essential skill for anyone producing written work that draws upon visual media. By understanding the core components of a citation, differentiating between the notes-bibliography and author-date systems, and applying the correct formatting for various access methods, you can ensure your sources are accurately and consistently credited. The examples and guidance provided in this article aim to simplify this process, enabling you to cite your documentaries with confidence and precision. Remember that the goal of citation is to acknowledge creators, facilitate verification, and uphold academic integrity, ultimately enhancing the credibility and impact of your research.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most crucial element to remember when citing a documentary in Chicago style?
The most crucial element is to accurately identify the director(s) and the year of release, as these are key components for locating and verifying the source.
How do I format the director's name in a Chicago-style documentary citation?
In a footnote or endnote, the director's name is typically listed as First Name Last Name. In the bibliography, it is Last Name, First Name.
What if a documentary has multiple directors?
When there are two or three directors, list all of them in the citation. For four or more directors, list the first director followed by 'et al.' in the bibliography, but all directors should be listed in footnotes/endnotes if space allows.
Should I include the production company in the citation?
Yes, it is recommended to include the production company or distributor, especially if it helps identify the specific version or release of the documentary.
How do I cite a specific scene or segment from a documentary?
You can cite a specific scene by providing a time marker (e.g., 'at 25:30') after the title or in your explanatory text in a footnote/endnote. The bibliography citation remains the same for the full documentary.
What is the difference between citing a documentary in a footnote/endnote versus a bibliography?
The primary difference lies in the order of names and punctuation. Footnotes/endnotes typically use 'First Name Last Name' and include a specific page or time reference if applicable, while the bibliography uses 'Last Name, First Name' and lists the full entry.
How do I cite a documentary that I accessed online, like on a streaming service?
For online documentaries, include the title of the website or streaming service, the URL, and the date you accessed it. Ensure the URL is stable if possible.
Are there any specific Chicago style guidelines for the titles of documentaries?
Documentary titles should be italicized, similar to feature films. This clearly distinguishes them from other types of media.

Related Books

Here are 9 book titles related to documentary citation in Chicago Style, each beginning with italicized words as requested:

1. The Mechanics of Modern Citation
This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of academic citation, with a significant focus on the Chicago Manual of Style. It provides clear explanations and practical examples for citing various source types, including those commonly found in documentary research. The book aims to equip researchers with the confidence and precision needed for accurate academic referencing.

2. Documentary Evidence and Academic Integrity
This text explores the crucial role of proper citation in maintaining academic integrity, especially when working with visual and auditory sources like documentaries. It examines the ethical considerations and scholarly expectations surrounding the use and attribution of documentary material. Readers will learn strategies for effectively integrating and acknowledging evidence from films and other multimedia.

3. Navigating Chicago Style: A Practical Handbook
Designed for students and scholars, this handbook offers a user-friendly approach to implementing Chicago Style guidelines. It covers both notes-bibliography and author-date systems, providing detailed instructions for citing a wide array of sources, including non-traditional ones often encountered in documentary studies. The book's emphasis on practical application makes it an invaluable resource for everyday use.

4. Foundations of Scholarly Communication
This foundational text examines the principles and practices of scholarly communication across disciplines. It includes discussions on the importance of clear attribution, the evolution of citation practices, and the role of style guides like Chicago. The book provides context for why precise citation, particularly for documentary sources, is essential for scholarly discourse.

5. Visual Culture and Citation: Bridging the Gap
This work addresses the unique challenges of citing visual materials, such as those found in documentaries, within established academic frameworks. It offers innovative approaches and solutions for acknowledging the creators and contextualizing visual evidence. The book champions the need for robust citation methods that honor the complexity of visual scholarship.

6. The Art of Referencing: From Source to Scholarship
This book offers a thoughtful exploration of the referencing process, viewing it as an integral part of scholarly craftsmanship. It moves beyond mere rules to discuss the philosophy and purpose behind citation, particularly in fields that rely heavily on secondary or interpretive materials like documentaries. The text encourages a deeper understanding of how citations build a scholarly argument.

7. Chicago Style for the Digital Age
Specifically tailored for contemporary research, this guide updates Chicago Style principles for the digital environment. It provides up-to-date advice on citing online documentaries, interviews, and other digital media. The book ensures that researchers can confidently cite the ever-expanding landscape of digital documentary sources.

8. Understanding Source Attribution in Media Studies
This book focuses on the specific needs of media studies scholars, offering guidance on attributing sources within this interdisciplinary field. It includes detailed sections on citing film, television, and other media, with particular attention to documentary forms. The text aims to foster best practices for acknowledging the diverse sources that inform media analysis.

9. Crafting Scholarly Papers: A Writer's Companion
This companion for writers aims to demystify the process of crafting academic papers, covering everything from thesis development to final revisions. It dedicates substantial attention to citation practices, explaining how to effectively integrate and cite all types of sources, including those derived from documentaries. The book emphasizes clarity, accuracy, and adherence to stylistic conventions.